South Carolina is home to many beautiful and fascinating moth species.
From small, delicate moths to large and colorful species, the diverse population of moths in South Carolina, the Palmetto State, offers something special to discover.
In this blog post, we will examine some of the most common types of moths in South Carolina, including their characteristics, behaviors, and habitats.
So, if you want to learn more about the moths of South Carolina, read on!
1. Unicorn Caterpillar Moth
The Unicorn Caterpillar Moth (Schizura unicorns) is the first on this list of the types of moths in South Carolina and other areas of the southeastern United States. It is a medium-sized moth with a wingspan of 1.5 – 2 inches. The head and thorax are yellowish-orange, while the abdomen is darker orange or reddish. Its most distinctive feature is the yellow tufts of hairs along its back, giving it a “unicorn” appearance.
The moth flies from April through June and is attracted to lights at night. It also visits flowers, such as honeysuckle, for nectar. Its caterpillars defoliate oaks, maples, and members of the rose family, making them a minor pest of commercial trees and shrubs.
2. Yellow-Headed Looper Moth
The yellow-headed looper moth (Lambdina pellucidaria) is an attractive small to medium-sized moth in South Carolina. Their bright yellow and black forewings easily identify these moths. The hindwings are mostly white, with a large dark spot near the base. The yellow-headed looper moth is typically active from late spring until summer and can feed on various plants.
They are commonly seen in yards and gardens as they search for food and lay eggs. The larvae of the yellow-headed looper moth feed on various plants such as clover, grasses, and weeds. They form large webs in the branches of trees, shrubs, and grasses. The adult moth has a wingspan of about 1 inch and can reach speeds up to 15 mph.
The yellow-headed looper moth is important to farmers and gardeners as it helps control pest populations. This species is considered one of the common types of moths in South Carolina and can be spotted in many places during the warmer months.
3. Yellow-Striped Armyworm Moth
The Yellow-striped Armyworm Moth (Spodoptera ornithogalli) is a medium-sized moth with a wingspan of up to 1.5 inches. It has a distinctive yellow stripe down its back, and its hindwings are usually gray or pale yellow.
This moth is found in wooded areas throughout South Carolina and is active mainly at night. The adult moths feed on nectar, while the larvae feed on various plant materials, including corn, soybeans, sorghum, and other grasses. Overall, it is one of the many types of moths in South Carolina.
4. Yellow-Shouldered Slug Moth
The Yellow-shouldered Slug Moth (Lithacodes fasciola) is a species of moth in the family Limacodidae. This species is native to South Carolina, although it can be found in other states throughout the United States. It is a small to medium-sized moth with yellowish-orange wings with black stripes. The body and legs of these moths in South Carolina are dark brown or black.
The moth flies mainly at night and is attracted to lights. It prefers wooded areas, gardens, and fields. The larvae of this species feed on various plants, including oak trees and garden plants.
The adult moth has a 1.25 to 1.75 inches wingspan and is usually active from May to September. They can be seen in the early evening, often near street or porch lights. This moth can be easily identified by its unique patterning and coloration.
5. Yucca Moth
The Yucca Moth (Tegeticula, Greya, and Prodoxus spp.) is a species of moth native to South Carolina and some other parts of the United States. It is a small type of moth in South Carolina with a wingspan of about 2 cm. The adults have white wings and white heads. They have gray bodies with black lines running down their backs.
They are generally found in fields and meadows and prefer areas with lots of yucca plants, which they feed on. These moths also act as important pollinators for the yucca plant. In the summer and early fall, yucca moths can be found throughout South Carolina.
During this time, they will lay their eggs inside the flowers of the yucca plant, which the caterpillars will then feed on when they emerge. Although they may be small, these moths play an important role in the ecosystem and should be protected as part of South Carolina’s natural heritage.
6. Zebra Conchylodes Moth
The Zebra Conchylodes Moth (Conchylodes ovulalis) is a member of the Geometridae family and is found throughout South Carolina. This medium-sized moth has a wingspan of 1.5 to 2 inches and is white and gray, with distinctive dark gray stripes running along its wings. These moths feed on various plants, including grasses, dandelions, and clover.
Furthermore, they are most active in the evening and night when they are attracted to lights and can be seen fluttering around street lamps. The Zebra Conchylodes Moth is an important pollinator, helping to spread pollen from one plant to another to fertilize them. It can be found in various habitats across South Carolina, including open meadows, fields, pastures, woodlands, and gardens.
They are particularly attracted to gardens with plenty of flowering plants, which provide them with the nectar they need for energy. The female moths lay their eggs on the leaves of their host plants, and the larvae then feed on the foliage. Equally important to note, they are not left out of this list of the types of moths in South Carolina you should know about!
The caterpillars are brown and white, with a unique black “V” pattern across their backs. By providing a diversity of flowering plants, gardeners can attract more of these beneficial moths to their gardens and help support local ecosystems.
7. Woolly Gray Moth
The Woolly Gray Moth (Lycia ypsilon) is a species of moth found in South Carolina. It is approximately 1-1.5 inches in size and has a beautiful silvery-gray color. Its wings are covered with fine, dense fur, giving it a woolly appearance.
This species prefers deciduous woodlands and forests as its habitats, and it feeds primarily on foliage, particularly oak leaves. This species, on the list of the types of moths in South Carolina, is often found resting in or near areas of heavy vegetation. The Woolly Gray Moth is also known to feed on tree sap, making it an important pollinator. It is active during the summer but may also be seen in the spring.
They are an important part of the food chain, providing sustenance to birds, small mammals, and other insect species. They are relatively common throughout South Carolina but may be harder to spot due to their small size and elusive behavior. You can spot these lovely moths in their natural habitats with patience and knowledge of the area.
8. Yellow-Based Tussock Moth
The Yellow-based Tussock Moth (Dasychira basiflava) is one of the many types of moths in South Carolina. It is a medium-sized moth with a wingspan of around 40 mm and is mostly light yellow or buff colored. The hindwings are usually darker brown and have white markings along the edges.
This moth is typically found in coastal regions during the summer months and feeds on various trees. Due to its yellow coloring, it is often mistaken for a butterfly but can easily be distinguished from other species by its distinctive patterned forewings.
9. White-Fringed Emerald Moth
The White-fringed Emerald Moth (Nemoria mimosaria) is a moth species in South Carolina. It is a small, white-colored moth species with a narrow, whitish-green line along its wings. The larva is a yellow-orange caterpillar that feeds on the leaves of oaks and other hardwood trees.
When the larvae are ready to pupate, they spin a cocoon of silk and leaf fragments and form a pupa. After hatching, the adult moths feed on nectar and pollen from flowers. This species of moth is generally active during the day, although it may also be active at night. It is known to lay eggs on tree branches and bark during late summer and early fall.
10. White Flannel Moth
The White Flannel Moth (Norape ovina) is a small moth found throughout the South, including in South Carolina. Its wings have a distinctive white and black pattern and a wide body. Its wingspan can reach up to two inches in length, making it one of the larger species of moths in South Carolina. The moth is active day and night and can be seen flying around flowers in search of nectar.
One of the types of moths in South Carolina, the white flannel moth, also feeds on aphids and other soft-bodied insects. The moth is an important pollinator for many native plant species in South Carolina and for some cultivated crops, such as melons and squash. It also provides food for many species of birds, reptiles, and amphibians, making the White flannel moth an important part of the ecosystem in South Carolina.
11. Vine Sphinx Moth
The Vine Sphinx Moth (Eumorpha Vitis) is a large moth species found throughout South Carolina. It has a wingspan of 2-3 inches and coloration ranging from gray to white, with dark gray or black markings along the edges of its wings. The vine sphinx moth is known for its long, curved proboscis, which is used to feed on nectar from flowers.
This species is typically found around wooded areas and gardens during the late summer months. The Vine Sphinx Moth plays an important role in pollinating plants in South Carolina, as its long proboscis allows it to reach deep into the nectar of many flowering plants.
The vine sphinx moth is also one of the most abundant types in South Carolina, making it an important part of the region’s biodiversity. As the Vine Sphinx Moth is considered an important pollinator, it is important to ensure that its population remains healthy and abundant so that its vital role in the ecosystem can continue.
12. Spun Glass Slug Moth
We are still discussing the various types of moths in South Carolina, and here’s another. The Spun Glass Slug Moth (Isochaetes beutenmuelleri) is a moth species in South Carolina. It is a member of the family Limacodidae characterized by its small size and dull grayish coloration.
The moth can be seen in many habitats, including wooded areas and gardens. It has a wingspan of up to 15 mm and is considered a minor pest, as its larvae feed on various plant species. The moth is found year-round in South Carolina and is often attracted to lights at night.
13. Sycamore Tussock Moth
The Sycamore Tussock Moth (Halysidota harrisii) is a moth species found in South Carolina. These moths have a wingspan of 1.2 to 1.6 inches and feature a pattern of white and yellow markings on the wings. They are named after the tussock-like hairs that cover their bodies. This species’ larvae feed on sycamore trees’ leaves and can be seen in late summer or early autumn.
The adult moths are primarily nocturnal, although they may also be active during the day. The Sycamore Tussock Moth is an important pollinator for sycamore trees in South Carolina and other parts of the United States. The larvae of these particular types of moths in South Carolina are also a food source for birds, reptiles, and other wildlife.
Because of its importance in the ecosystem, protecting this species from habitat destruction and other threats is important. By protecting its habitat, we can ensure the future of these moths and the continued health of sycamore trees in South Carolina.
14. Tobacco Budworm Moth
The Tobacco Budworm Moth (Chloridea virescens) is a small moth species found in South Carolina. It has a wingspan of around 1 to 1.2 inches, and the color of its wings ranges from gray-brown to yellow-brown. The larvae of this moth are commonly found on tobacco plants, hence the name. They feed on the leaves and buds of these plants, making them agricultural pests in some areas.
The adult Tobacco Budworm Moth is active during summer, usually between June and August. Compared to the other types of moths in South Carolina, it is mostly nocturnal and can be attracted to lights. As it is not a large moth, it is often difficult to spot in the wild. However, if you are looking for this species, you may have more luck in wooded areas or fields with tobacco plants.
15. Twin-Spotted Sphinx Moth
The Twin-spotted Sphinx Moth(Smerinthus jamaicensis), also known as the Jamaican Sphinx, is common in South Carolina. This attractive moth has a wingspan of about 2.5 inches, and its forewings are grayish-brown with two white spots. It is one of the different types of moths in South Carolina and also has dark stripes running along its hindwings.
The moth can be found throughout the state during the spring and summer months, typically in open grassy areas. It is most active at night, but it can sometimes be seen during the day. The moth is known to feed on various plants, including members of the aster family. It is considered a beneficial species as it pollinates flowers and helps to control pest populations.
16. Achemon Sphinx Moth
The Achemon Sphinx Moth (Eumorpha achemon) is a moth species found in South Carolina and throughout the eastern United States. It is a member of the Sphingidae family, also known as hawkmoths, and is known for its large size and distinctive appearance. The Achemon Sphinx Moth has a wingspan of up to 4 inches, a brown or gray body, and intricately patterned forewings.
The Achemon Sphinx Moth is a nocturnal species, with adult moths emerging in late spring or early summer. The adults feed on nectar from various flowers, while the larvae feed on the leaves of various species of plants, including grapevine, Virginia creeper, and wild grape. The larvae of these moths in South Carolina are typically green or brown, with a distinctive white stripe down the center of the back. They are often considered pests in agricultural areas, as they can defoliate grape vines and other crops.
In South Carolina, the Achemon Sphinx Moth is common in wooded areas, gardens, and parks. Despite its reputation as a pest, it is also considered a valuable part of the ecosystem, playing a role in pollination and serving as a food source for other animals, such as bats and birds. The Achemon Sphinx Moth is a popular subject for photographers and amateur naturalists drawn to its impressive size and striking appearance.
17. Abbott’s Sphinx Moth
Abbott’s Sphinx Moth, also known as Sphecodina abbottii, is a moth species found in South Carolina. It is a large, heavy-bodied moth with approximately 3 to 4 inches wingspan. The forewings of the Abbott’s Sphinx Moth are a dark brownish-gray, while the hind wings are a pale gray. On this list of the types of moths in South Carolina, the moth’s body is stout and covered in short, dense fur.
The caterpillar of Abbott’s Sphinx Moth is green with a pale yellow stripe running down its back. It is commonly found in wooded areas and is most active at night. It is a strong flier often seen hovering near flowers while it feeds on nectar using its long proboscis.
Abbott’s Sphinx Moth is an important pollinator and plays a significant role in South Carolina’s ecosystem. Additionally, the caterpillar of Abbott’s Sphinx Moth is an important food source for many species of birds, including the Eastern Bluebird. The Abbott’s Sphinx Moth is not considered a threatened or endangered species, but it is important to maintain the natural habitats supporting its populations.
18. Abbreviated Button Slug Moth
The Abbreviated Button Slug Moth, or Tortricidia flexuosa, is a moth species native to South Carolina. It belongs to the family of tortricid moths and is known for its unique appearance, with a distinctive orange and black striped pattern on its wings. This species is commonly found in wooded areas and is considered a common sight in the state.
Of the different types of moths in South Carolina, Tortricidia flexuosa is a relatively small species with a wingspan of around 1.5 inches. Despite its small size, the Abbreviated Button Slug Moth is an important part of the ecosystem, playing a role in the food chain as a source of nutrition for predators such as birds and other insects. It is also known for its ability to camouflage itself, blending in with its surroundings to avoid predators. This makes it a fascinating subject for entomologists and insect enthusiasts alike.
19. Banded Tussock Moth
The Banded Tussock Moth, also known as Halysidota tessellaris, is a moth species in South Carolina and other parts of the United States. It is known for its distinctive appearance, featuring tufts of hair-like scales on its wings and legs. The Banded Tussock Moth is typically active in the summer, with adults emerging from cocoons to mate and lay eggs.
The Banded Tussock Moth plays an important role in the ecosystem. It serves as a food source for various predators, including birds, reptiles, and other insects. Its larvae, also known as caterpillars, feed on various plants, such as oak, apple, and birch.
Despite its significance in the ecosystem, the Banded Tussock Moth is not considered a pest and does not threaten crops or other agricultural plants. This makes it a valuable and fascinating subject for entomologists and nature enthusiasts.
20. Ruby Quaker Moth
The Ruby Quaker Moth (Orthosia rubescens) is a member of the family Noctuidae and can be found in several states across the United States, including South Carolina. This species is characterized by its brownish-red mottling, which helps to distinguish it from other moths. It is one of the types of moths in South Carolina that typically grows to be around an inch in size and has a wingspan of 1.5 – 2 inches.
The Ruby Quaker moth is an active daily flier who can often be seen resting on tree trunks or among vegetation. When it is ready to lay eggs, it does so near the bark of trees or shrubs. Once hatched, the larvae feed on a variety of plants and can damage crops.
This species also hosts several parasites, including wasps and flies, which can help regulate the population. As a result, the Ruby Quaker moth is an important species in maintaining the environment’s health in South Carolina.
21. Packard’s Wave Moth
This species of moth (Cyclophora parckardi) can be found throughout South Carolina and is known for its distinct white and brown markings. The wingspan of this moth can reach up to 2.25 inches, and the antennae are relatively long. They are often seen flying close to wooded areas and other natural habitats as they feed on nectar from flowers.
Packard’s Wave Moth’s caterpillars feed on various plants, including sassafras, sweet gum, and black cherry. This species, of the different types of moths in South Carolina, is active during the day but is most active at dusk. While they are usually solitary, this species can sometimes be seen in small groups.
It is important to remember that while Packard’s Wave Moth is harmless, its presence may indicate the presence of other moths that can damage crops. As such, it is important to monitor their numbers and, if necessary, take steps to reduce their impact.
22. Pale-Winged Crocidophora Moth
The Pale-winged Crocidophora Moth (Crocidophora tuberculalis) is a moth native to South Carolina. It is a medium-sized moth with a wingspan of up to 1 inch. The moth has pale gray wings with darker gray edges. Its body is a dark brown color with pale yellow and gray markings.
The caterpillar of the Pale-winged Crocidophora Moth is greenish-gray with yellowish stripes along its back. This moth species can be found in various parts of the state, such as forests, fields, and yards. It is attracted to lights and can often be seen fluttering around street or porch lights at night.
The Pale-winged Crocidophora Moth feeds on nectar from various flowering plants, including milkweed and goldenrod. These particular types of moths in South Carolina also play an important role in pollination.
23. Plume Moth
The Plume Moth (Hellinsia homodactyla) is one of the many moths in South Carolina. It is part of Pterophoridae, small to medium-sized moths with fringed and patterned wings. They usually have a wingspan between 10mm and 30mm and come in shades of brown, grey, and white.
The Plume Moth has two pairs of wings; the forewings are elongated with a white, creamy, or beige color, while the hindwings are more rounded with a greyish hue. They can hover around flowers, shrubs, and trees during summer. The Plume Moth’s larvae feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs, including maple, elm, willow, poplar, and cherry. They can be seen in gardens, parks, and woodlands.
The adults feed on nectar from flowers and may visit birdbaths for water. The adults can be seen between June and August in South Carolina. They are generally considered harmless to humans but can damage plants if their larvae feed on them.
24. Red-Fringed Emerald Moth
The Red-fringed Emerald Moth (Nemoria bistriaria) is one of the most common types of moths in South Carolina. This species of moth is usually seen in open fields, around farmlands, and even in gardens. It has a wingspan of roughly 1-2 inches and is primarily olive green in color with a pattern of red, yellow, and black fringes along the edges of its wings.
The underside of its wings is mostly white, with some red streaks near the edges. Its larvae feed on various types of grass and other low-growing plants. This species of moth is active during the warmer months, but it can also be seen at night, as it is attracted to artificial light sources.
25. Sad Underwing Moth
The Sad Underwing Moth(Catocala maestosa), also known as Catocala maestosa, is a type of moth found in South Carolina. This species is one of the larger moths in the state, growing to a wingspan of 2 to 3 inches. It is recognizable by its mostly grayish body and hindwings with a reddish-orange hue on the inner portion. The adult moths are nocturnal and feed on nectar during the night.
The Sad Underwing Moth larvae feed on the leaves of trees such as oaks, willows, and elms. They can be found throughout most of South Carolina and have a limited range. This species has a single flight period in the late summer and early fall.
During this time, they often rest on tree trunks during the day. The Sad Underwing Moth is an important species to the area’s ecology, helping to pollinate plants and keep insects in check. Overall, it is one of the types of moths in South Carolina that you should be aware of!
26. Saw-Wing Moth
The Saw-wing Moth (Euchlaena serrata) is a small, white moth with bright yellow patches on its wings and body. It is one of the many species of moths found in South Carolina. This species is found in most parts of the state and is especially common in the northern part.
The Saw-wing Moth is known for its distinctive saw-like pattern on its wings, which helps distinguish it from other moths. It is also distinguished by its flight pattern, which often appears as a “zigzag” flight. The Saw-wing Moth has a short lifespan, rarely living longer than a month, and is active during the day rather than at night.
They are types of moths in South Carolina that feed on nectar from various flowers, including goldenrod and red clover. They are important pollinators, as they can carry pollen to many flowers in one trip. The Saw-wing Moth is a valuable species of moth, not only due to its unique appearance but also due to its importance as a pollinator in South Carolina.
27. The Laugher Moth
The Laugher Moth (Charada deridens) is a unique moth species found in the southeastern regions of the United States, including South Carolina. This species of moth is known for its bright yellow and black coloring, as well as the loud laughing sound it emits when disturbed. This moth species has three patterns on its wings that make it easily recognizable.
The wings are divided into an inner and outer portion, with the inner portion having black or dark brown spots. The outer portion has yellowish-brown streaks and white patches that resemble a smiley face. The Laugher Moth is an active nocturnal species, usually found at night. It feeds on nectar from flowers such as ragweed, goldenrod, and other plants.
While the species is not considered to be endangered, it is still considered to be rare due to its limited range. If you ever spot one of these unique moths in South Carolina, it would be worth observing this amazing creature. Don’t stop reading this article if you want to know about the other types of moths in South Carolina.
28. Three-Lined Flower Moth
The Three-lined Flower Moth (Schinia trifascia) is an iconic moth species found in South Carolina. It has a wingspan of up to 1.5 inches and can easily be recognized by its distinctive tri-color pattern. The moth’s wings combine black, yellow, and white stripes, with each stripe running along the length of the wings.
This moth species is active during the day and can often be seen hovering around flowers or resting on trees. They are commonly found in open fields, woodlands, and grassy areas. This species, of the types of moths in South Carolina, is an important pollinator for many wildflowers in the state.
It helps spread pollen from one flower to another, allowing plants to reproduce and propagate. It is also known to feed on certain nectar-producing flowers, helping to sustain their populations. The Three-lined Flower Moth is a valuable species that should be protected and conserved in South Carolina.
29. Ironweed Root Moth
The Ironweed Root Moth, or Polygrammodes flavidalis, is a member of the Crambidae family of moths. These insects are native to South Carolina and can be found in various habitats, from open grasslands to moist wooded areas. They are small moths, usually measuring around 1/2 inch in length, with pale yellow wings, a tan body, and reddish-orange stripes.
Ironweed Root Moths are one of the many types of moths in South Carolina. They typically feed on the leaves of ironweed plants, hence the name. While these moths are generally considered nuisance pests, they can cause damage to crops and gardens when their populations become too large. Ironweed Root Moths can be difficult to identify due to their small size and often fly during the day when most other moth species are inactive.
To ensure that these moths aren’t causing any damage, homeowners should watch for their larvae, which can cause considerable damage to crops. If you find many Ironweed Root Moths in your garden, it’s best to contact a pest control professional who can help you safely remove them.
30. Plume Moth
The Plume Moth (Hellinsia homodactyla) is a moth species in South Carolina. This type of moth is unique in its appearance, as its wings are almost feather-like in texture. It has a pale yellow to brown body and light grey wings with a distinctive pinkish-brown line along the wing’s outer edge. The Plume Moth also has an interesting behavior pattern; it prefers to fly in the evening.
The Plume Moth is relatively one of the uncommon types of moths in South Carolina. It is mainly found in open fields and grasslands but can also be spotted near water sources such as ponds, streams, and rivers. If you’re looking for this type of moth, the best way to find them is to look for them at dusk and into the night. While they may be hard to spot, the Plume Moth is worth looking out for if you’re lucky enough to come across one.
31. Orange Virbia Moth
The Orange Virbia Moth (Virbia aurantiaca) is a moth species in South Carolina. It has a wingspan of between 25 and 35 mm and a bright orange body with pale yellow stripes running along its wings. The moth is most active during the summer, with caterpillars emerging in late spring and pupating in mid-July.
The caterpillars feed on plant leaves, while adult moths are attracted to flowers, where they feed on nectar. These types of moths can be seen flying in open areas, meadows, and roadsides in South Carolina. The moth plays an important role in the environment, providing a food source for birds and other wildlife and helping pollinate plants.
32. Unspotted Looper Moth
The Unspotted Looper Moth (Allagrapha aerea) is an unassuming species in South Carolina. This moth is easily identifiable due to its light brown wings and cream-colored abdomen. It has a wingspan of about 1 1⁄2 inches, which is quite small for a moth.
These moths can be found flying around on warm, humid nights during the summer months. They are typically found near open fields or woodlands with plenty of vegetation to feed on.
The Unspotted Looper Moth is a relatively common sight in South Carolina. It is active from May to August and can be found throughout the state.
Its caterpillar is also quite distinctive, with yellow and green stripes that make it stand out among other types of moths. While these moths may not look particularly impressive, they play an important role in the ecosystem by providing food sources for birds, reptiles, and other predators.
33. Tulip-Tree Beauty Moth
The Tulip-tree Beauty Moth (Epimecis hortaria) is a moth species found in South Carolina. It has a wingspan of up to an inch and a half, with the wings mostly tan with dark brown bands running lengthwise. Its forewings are mottled with purplish or greyish bands and spots.
This moth can be seen in the southeastern United States from late May through early August. It has also been found in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. These moths are attracted to lights, so if you want to observe them, consider setting up an outdoor light near their habitat.
The larvae of this species feed on trees such as tulip poplar and magnolia. There are also types of moths in South Carolina considered a pest of fruit trees, such as apples and cherries.
34. Tobacco Hornworm Moth
The Tobacco Hornworm Moth (Manduca sexta) is last on this list of the different types of moths in South Carolina. This species is typically found on the leaves of tobacco plants, hence its common name. It is a large moth with a wingspan of up to 4 inches. The forewings are brownish-green with white and yellow stripes running along the length.
Meanwhile, it is active during the day, which makes it easily spotted. The moth feeds on flowers and leaves, and sometimes even small insects. They are also known to benefit farmers as they help control pests in the crop. This moth species is an important pollinator in South Carolina’s ecosystems, helping ensure healthy and balanced environments.
